Belongings issue during visitation... what should I do?

I just picked up my daughter from visitation, but she wasn’t returned with her phone. My ex’s girlfriend is saying my daughter can’t have her phone when she’s with them, but there’s nothing in our agreement that says I have to follow that. Now, the girlfriend is making demands for me to pick it up and wants to meet tomorrow. I really don’t want to deal with this after all the threats and name-calling she’s done to me. It feels petty, and I don’t think meeting her demands is the right move. I’ve tried to talk to my ex, but he’s not responding. So, do I really have to respond to the girlfriend? It just doesn’t make sense to me.

You’re right to feel frustrated. If there’s no agreement about the phone, you shouldn’t have to meet her demands. It’s not fair that she’s trying to control the situation.

Jude said:
You’re right to feel frustrated. If there’s no agreement about the phone, you shouldn’t have to meet her demands. It’s not fair that she’s trying to control the situation.

Exactly! You have every right to keep your daughter’s phone with her. It’s not like the girlfriend gets to make those calls.

I would suggest documenting everything. If she’s being aggressive or making demands, it might be good to have a record of it. You never know when you might need it.

Zofia said:
I would suggest documenting everything. If she’s being aggressive or making demands, it might be good to have a record of it. You never know when you might need it.

That’s a good point. Keeping a record can be helpful if things escalate.

You really don’t have to respond to her. If your ex isn’t communicating, it’s on him to deal with his girlfriend. You’re the parent here.

zam said:
You really don’t have to respond to her. If your ex isn’t communicating, it’s on him to deal with his girlfriend. You’re the parent here.

Yeah, it’s ridiculous that you have to go through her instead of your ex. Stand your ground!

I get that you don’t want to deal with her, but if you feel your daughter’s phone is being unfairly withheld, you might want to consider getting legal advice.

Faye said:
I get that you don’t want to deal with her, but if you feel your daughter’s phone is being unfairly withheld, you might want to consider getting legal advice.

Legal advice sounds smart. It’s better to be prepared if this becomes a bigger issue.

It’s tough dealing with exes and their partners. Just remember, your daughter’s well-being is what matters most. Don’t let petty behavior get in the way of that.

Greer said:
It’s tough dealing with exes and their partners. Just remember, your daughter’s well-being is what matters most. Don’t let petty behavior get in the way of that.

Absolutely! Focus on your daughter, and don’t let the girlfriend’s drama pull you in.